Family Encyclopedia >> Food

Easy Niçoise Salad Recipe: Budget-Friendly Lunch Under €2

Easy Niçoise Salad Recipe: Budget-Friendly Lunch Under €2

Swap out your usual midday sandwich for this refreshing Niçoise salad. As a busy home cook who's perfected quick, affordable meals, I've relied on this recipe for years—it's simple, delicious, and costs less than €2 per serving.

This salad stands out for its ease and low cost. Here's what you need for one hearty portion:

70g rice

1 can natural tuna

Half a tomato

4 strips bell pepper

1/4 cucumber

1 hard-boiled egg

Pitted black olives

Prep it the day before to save time—flavors meld beautifully overnight.

1. Cook the rice, drain, and cool.

2. Boil the egg until hard-boiled.

3. Dice the tomato (seeded), bell pepper, and cucumber.

4. Mix rice, veggies, tuna, and olives in a container. Refrigerate overnight.

For dressing, blend olive oil with a teaspoon of mayonnaise and chives. Season with salt and pepper. Homemade mayo elevates it further.

Prefer lighter? Whisk olive oil, chives, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a classic vinaigrette.

Savings Achieved

Skip pricey €3-4 sandwiches or paninis—especially without meal vouchers. This Niçoise salad saves money at under €2, keeps you full, and avoids boredom.

Vary it with diced chicken or salmon instead of tuna. Add arugula or mâche for freshness. Just thinking about it has me hungry!